The Italian government stepped in to begin the daunting task of ending fan violence. Some of the measures include: end sales of block trades, suspending fan clubs associations, designated seating, shifting responsibility from government to clubs and increasing jail sentences from three to five years for violence.
The Italians have taken the right first steps - steps that should have been enforced long ago. However, now the hard part begins, as they will need to address the hardcore fans (ultras) that cause disturbances.
As it stands, only six clubs - not including San Siro in Milan - out of 25 stadiums have been allowed to admit fans back. "Ghost" stadiums are not going to solve anything except temporarily give a reprieve if they do not reign in the utlras.
In the meantime, soccer fans across the country gathered around stadiums to support their colors. The common question was "why should we be penalized for the actions of so few?" as one supporter put it. One man, interviewed on Sky TV, missed his first soccer game in 55 years.
When you let violence fester, it grows and it becomes that much harder to slay.
Peacefully, Italians held up teams' scarves, cheered, and shared wine and espresso. In a more somber mood, in Sicily they marched behind the slain officer's wife and offered thoughts and condolences. Indeed, those paying the price are the decent. The only inexplicable and unfortunate incident came by the crass hands of Roman fans that jeered during a moment of silence for the officer killed in Catania.
But - and you knew there was one - good intentions do not solve the problem. The laws are in place now. Will this be a case of the same old song? Some of these measures were introduced as far back as 1989. They simply were never enforced or observed.
Why? Well, we could write a book searching for an answer.
Fan violence comes in many different forms and faces. In South America, where the problem is as much political and socio-economic, the violence there makes Europe look like a "playground" as a friend of mine put it. Argentina, for instance, is plagued by the Barra Baravas who support the legendary club Boca Juniors. They are known to, among other things, snort cocaine in the stands.
Sport sociologist Gunter Pilz saw this in his native Germany a few years back. "Soccer fans aren't the only ones involved in such confrontations. If there's violence, it's an excuse for other violently inclined groups, including criminals, to get in on the fighting." According to Pilz, the problem in Italy is still stronger because it has been allowed to grow by both club and government officials.
Article comments
1 - ProfEssays
I think it is necessary to let people relax.
2 - alessandro nicolo
Absolutely. Playing to empty stadiums, however, really upsets some. Coach of Inter MIlan Roberto Mancini feels that if this is done might as well shut down the season and restart in September when everyone has their act together. And government involvement already rubs people the wrong way. We know this all to well here.